Juvenile Court Programs provides education, training, and resources for judges, court staff, and partners statewide. These efforts promote best practices, strengthen professional development, and ensure informed decision-making in juvenile justice and child welfare cases. Training opportunities include conferences, workshops, webinars, and customized local support. Practical tools and guidance help court professionals stay current with evolving laws and policies.
Juvenile Judicial Conferences
Each year, Juvenile Court Programs offers three juvenile judicial conferences. These include:
Juvenile Justice Judges Conference
The Juvenile Justice Judges Conference is an annual gathering held during the first week of June, hosted by a local juvenile court and juvenile department. This event is dedicated to delinquency law and best practices, offering juvenile court judges from across Oregon the opportunity to collaborate, share insights, and strengthen their approach to serving youth in the justice system. Through interactive sessions and peer learning, the conference supports consistent, informed decision-making and promotes innovation in juvenile delinquency proceedings.
Through the Eyes of a Child Conference
The Through the Eyes of a Child Judicial Conference is a two-day event held each August for trial, appellate, senior, and tribal judges who preside over child abuse and neglect cases. The conference offers a forum for judicial officers to deepen their understanding of child welfare law, explore emerging issues, and engage in meaningful dialogue with colleagues and experts. Focused on improving outcomes for children and families, the event emphasizes best practices, legal updates, and strategies for trauma-informed and culturally responsive practices.
Dependency Bootcamp
The Dependency Bootcamp is a two-day training held every other year in the spring, designed for judges with one to four years of experience presiding over child welfare cases. This interactive training offers a strong foundation in dependency law and courtroom practice through scenario-based learning and guided discussions. Participants build skills in legal analysis, decision-making, and effective courtroom management. The bootcamp fosters peer connection and supports the development of consistent, informed approaches to handling child abuse and neglect cases across Oregon’s courts.